Russell Leonard Tyler's Obituary
Russell Leonard Tyler, 74, of Stockton, CA passed away on April 27, 2024, due to health complications. Russ was born to Christy and Agnes Tyler in 1950 in Honolulu, Hawaii. After attending Waianae High School, he began his journey into adulthood in the Navy at age 18. After his service, he pursued various occupations in Hawaii before relocating to California in 1978 to follow the love of his life, Frances, originally from Hawaii too. Russ and Frances exchanged vows in 1980, and he embraced her six children from a previous marriage as his own. Russ dedicated 34 years to a fulfilling career in Facilities Management with the County of San Joaquin, primarily supporting the San Joaquin General Hospital, before retiring in 2013 at 63. He is survived by his beloved wife, Frances, and five stepchildren: Jeffrey (Jaynine) Mertens, Laura (Kelly) Mertens, Denisse Low, Russell (Christina) Mertens, and Bernadine (Sal) Mertens. He was preceded in death by a stepson, Harry (Tamela) Mertens. Russ cherished his role as Papa to 14 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. He also had countless nieces and nephews scattered primarily in Hawaii and California.
Russ's joy knew no bounds when surrounded by his loved ones. Whether cheering on his grandchildren from the sidelines of the football field or in the pool or sharing laughter with friends over rounds of golf, Russ radiated warmth and kindness. His passion for crafting authentic kalua pig and teaching others the artistry behind it was matched only by his love for Hawaiian music. During his years in Hawaii, weekends were often filled with family gatherings, where he played slack key guitar and sang traditional Hawaiian music. He was also an active and dedicated member of the Quail Lakes Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Please join us for a graveside service at Valley of the Temples Memorial Park on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. A lunch reception will follow immediately at Jeffrey Mertens’s home at 41-138 Huli Street in Waimanalo.
DIRECTIONS TO GRAVESITE ONCE AT VALLEY OF THE TEMPLES: Drive to the back of the cemetery toward the Buddhist Temple. On the left of the entrance to the parking lot of the Buddhist Temple is a narrow street -- turn onto this street to another section of the cemetery (Patriotism), which opens to views of the Ko’olau Mountain Range. (Do not go down to the parking lot of the Buddhist Temple.) Drive straight forward, you should see a green canopy on the left about 20 feet from the street – this is the location.
What’s your fondest memory of Russell?
What’s a lesson you learned from Russell?
Share a story where Russell's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Russell you’ll never forget.
How did Russell make you smile?